Former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich gave a bipartisan message at the Iowa State Fair today, urging Republicans and Democrats to find common ground to solve the nation’s economic woes and to address other critical policy issues.

“We desperately need to get this economy running again,” said the GOP presidential candidate, citing past bipartisan successes in passing federal tax cuts and welfare reform. The nation’s current problems are so pressing that must be addressed immediately, he added, warning that “we are teetering on the edge of an economic disaster.”

Gingrich told Iowans they need to insist that politicians in Washington begin to cooperate and he suggested that leaders of both parties should focus on approving small bills on which they can find agreement. “You will break the ice and people will start talking with each other,” he explained.

CROWD: About 300 to 400 people, including quite a few Iowa Democrats, who listened politely.

OTHER ISSUES: Gingrich urged the use of business management strategies that could improve government efficiency. He said the use of corporate anti-fraud programs, for example, could save the federal government billions of dollars in operating entitlement programs. He also urged greater development of the nation’s energy industry.

QUOTE: “I am a hawk, but a cheap hawk,” Gingrich said, explaining his support for eliminating waste in defense programs.

REACTION: Gingrich got solid applause and some cheers as he wrapped up a warmly-received speech that was was noteworthy for its lack of criticism of Democrats, including President Barack Obama.